Small Successes: Once Again

Although I always enjoyed the format, it's been almost three years since I've posted any small successes.  The host site changed a few times and I lost track (and maybe focus).  Last night I stumbled on Small Success Thursdays at CatholicMom.Com, so I'm ready to begin again.

Listing a few small successes is meant to encourage me (and you, dear reader) to recognize that all is not inefficiency and craziness.  Appreciating even bits of progress or brightness is a gift to myself and those around me.

Enough intro . . . here's my list for this week:

1. I made it to Confession.  This was like hitting "refresh" on my Lent.  Time to move forward . . .
2. Examining my conscience prior to Confession made me realize that I must stop watching (halfway through 34 episodes) a culinary series full of cursing--lots and lots of cursing.  Maybe the fact that I wouldn't let anyone else in my family watch with me was the first clue???  The withdrawal hasn't been as difficult as I expected given how much I enjoyed the show.
3. Rebecca and I have spent time on her writing homework every day this week.  Breaking it up into bits makes the process so much easier, with no last minute panic or hours spent the night before it's due.  

I hope you're inspired to discover your successes.  Feel free to share or read about other moms here.

Small Successes: Homemaking Tweaks

I haven't written a "small successes" post since April, and in that time it's moved from Faith and Family Live to Chocolate for Your Brain. 
Here are a few of my recent (not all this week, though) accomplishments:

1. We have an effective chore system, and one of the weekly tasks is the emptying of trash cans.  Historically this worked fine for 9 out of 10 containers, but the receptacle in the kids' bathroom was always overflowing before Saturday.  Overflowing.  Every week.  With trash on the floor.  Ugh!  It took many years, but I finally came up with the no-duh solution--I bought a bigger trash can.

Not bad for a $5 impulse buy

2. My in-laws generously bought me a new bread machine 2 Christmases ago, which I've mostly used for making dough.  This summer I've been working to develop a 100% whole wheat recipe that will mix and bake in the machine.  It will save time and is so much more energy efficient than using the oven, especially in hot weather.  I've had some successes and failures, and so far don't have a keeper recipe.  Yesterday's attempt came out fairly well, though (a little dry, and I'd prefer a perfectly smooth top).

3. I have a pantry with plenty of wire shelves, plus an extra high set that Len built for me long ago, but sometimes it's still tricky to manage all the food and equipment I want to store in there.  Lately the bags have been driving me crazy!  We have more than usual--Boy Scout popcorn, chips, pretzels, rice cakes, tortilla chips, etc.  Not everything is open or eaten every day, but those floppy bags take up space and get jumbled and fall down from on high.

I decided to buy a container to corral all those goodies--something clear or with open sides so we'd be able to view its contents.  It also needed to be light enough to easily pull down from the shelf.  I located a few possibilities in the store, but as I kept wandering I found . . . ta da . . . a laundry basket!  It's light, open on the sides, and cost an unbelievable $2.75.

Yes, I know I'm easily amused.  Thank you for pointing that out.  ;-)

Sherry has links to other moms' successes.  Go be inspired!

Small Successes: the Outdoor Edition

 

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

I'm no pioneer or athlete, but have still managed some small successes this week:

1. Monday, at the urging of Marianna, we spent time at a nearby creek.
2. Yesterday, with only minimal complaining, I stuck it out through a two hour, 52 degree, drizzly soccer practice.  (Of course, the kids were running around in shorts by the time it was over.  I was half numb--wimp!)
3. This morning I woke up exhausted, with a headache and sore throat.  I walked the dog then came home and went to bed for another hour!  I then pulled off (with many helpers) our planned bluebell excursion.

How about you?  Be inspired by other moms at Faith and Family Live.

Bluebells and Spring Beauties photographed by Rebecca (age 6!)

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

I faithfully clean clothes and get food on the table, but there are many days when I believe that's all I've accomplished.  Our academic day more "un-" than "schooling?"  Struggling (in vain, as it humiliatingly turned out) to stay awake through Bible study?  A bare (after a week) Lenten Jesus tree?

Ah, well.  Sometimes it's better to focus on the positive.  In that spirit, here are some successes:

1. I made our crown of thorns the day after Lent began.  We hung our purple ribbons today.  Most of our other decorations are up, too.
2. So far I've kept my Lenten resolutions.
3. I made a tasty Irish dinner tonight, BEFORE Len and the boys drove off to their Catholic boys' club meeting.  Bonus:  I posted the recipe!

If you want more inspiration to look on the bright side, check out Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Looking back, I can find some satisfying accomplishments:

1. I tidied up the pantry.  Not the whole thing, of course, but the floor (yes, I have a nice, big pantry!) is visible and some important shelves have been reorganized.
2. The girls and I are ahead of our plans in science!  Even better, our latest Netflix science movie has arrived--great viewing, with just a bit of parental commentary needed when the narration gets overly Darwinian.
3. Yesterday was a busy day with lots of driving and time out of the house--not the most comfortable for this confirmed homebody.  Even though I'm doing what needs to be done, I often look back on a day like that (especially if I'm still preparing dinner at 7:00) and wonder if I accomplished anything significant.  At least last night I could glory in the fact that I had managed to get to the post office and ship three items, including a box to Greece.  Hurrah!

Look back and find out what you've succeeded at this week.  Be inspired by other moms here.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

It's been many weeks since I've participated, but here are some recent happy accomplishments:

1. I managed two field trips in a row--to the zoo on Friday (glorious weather!) and Mount Vernon on Monday (damp and cold, but free for Presidents' Day).
2. On both days I drove far from my comfort zone and made some wrong turns (my directional instincts are not the sharpest).  The up side?  I didn't panic, and recovered quickly without even needing a map.  I missed a really important turn on the way home from the zoo, but "winged it" well, taking a different route, and getting to the last light before our neighborhood right behind my friend who had taken the correct path!
3. We celebrated some family birthdays this weekend in addition to having a second commemoration of my in-laws' 50th anniversary.  I made a hazelnut cake and (bonus round) some hazelnut ice cream.  After soaking over 6 ounces of ground hazelnuts in cream and sugar, I was supposed to discard them, but could not deal with that much waste.  I put some in scones (tasty), made chocolate-dipped hazelnut shortbread (delicious), and am finishing the rest by adding it to portions of hot 10-grain cereal (can't tell it's there, but that's okay!).  Hey, I had that hazelnut meal shipped here from Oregon; I am not going to toss it without a fight!

How's your week going?  See how other women are succeeding over at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Let's see . . .

1. Evening Bible study started up this week, and I was there and awake.
2. Our family (the younger children were definitely part of the welcoming committee!) hosted David and three friends for almost 24 hours.  SMCM had a four day weekend, and the teens drove around visiting all their families.  Not enough one-on-one with my son, but I enjoyed meeting his new pals.
3. Cut the walk short this morning and managed a special birthday breakfast for my latest teenager (Joseph):  deluxe eggs and cinnamon rolls (there was a stash of already baked in the freezer--hurrah!).

Check out the worlds of other moms at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes

 

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Big and small, I've done it all:

1. Today I spoke to some moms at church about freezing food and planning a cycle menu.  We had fun and all learned at least something!
2. My blog has been bugging me lately--the posting area was so narrow.  Last night I finally sat down and put up a new template, widened it, and tweaked a few colors.  It's still quite plain, but gets the job done.
3. I called my hairdresser.  I still don't have an appointment, but I also haven't cut my bangs--yet!

Check out the successes of other moms at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes: Better NOT

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Sometimes accomplishments show up not as what we DO, but as what we DON'T.  In that spirit, I offer the following:

1. I haven't complained that the minivan has been out of commission since Sunday.  (If you must know, the oil ran out after Friday's oil change and we're waiting for various insurance adjusters and mechanics to determine whether the engine was damaged as a result.)
2. I have whined less than usual about my carpool duties and current cold.
3. I have NOT cut my bangs even though they need it.  I really must get a haircut--it's been too long (ha-ha)--and my history of self-trimmed bangs is a laughable one (just ask my sisters).

Are you making great strides, or is treading water your success this week?  See how other moms are doing at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that. "

This week, my accomplishments are of the "it's about time!" variety, but that's okay. Thank goodness I'm enjoying the "finally" instead of beating myself up for not getting these tasks done sooner. Are you gentle with yourself?

1. On Saturday Marianna and I went shopping for Irish dance shoes; she needed hard and soft ones. I should have ordered them online before classes started, but the benefit of procrastinating is that Marianna's teacher steered us to a shop offering a discount AND dancing girl was able to try them on for size.
2. I donated blood! It's been ages, certainly more than a decade since my last time. There's even more paperwork now--the actual draining of blood was the quickest, simplest part of the process! The last time I tried (on a whim) to donate, I was rejected for borderline anemia. That's when I started conscientiously taking supplements, and this time I passed easily. Hurray for multivitamins (with minerals--duh--it was the iron I boosted)!
3. At last, my double sink/bathroom counter is sparkling clean. Sorry, no "before" pictures. I'm not that humble yet. ;-)

Cheer on some other moms or share your own good news at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes: For My Children

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

STILL no significant school planning (I'm even procrastinating about panicking!), but I did take care of some tasks for my children this week:

1. Yesterday Joseph and I went shoe shopping, just the two of us. It sounds mundane, but I enjoyed his company as we worked our way through 3 stores, trying to find just the right combination of quality, fit, and price. Walking away with new shoes on Joe's feet was a satisfying accomplishment for both of us.
2. I mailed David's first care package on Monday, and he picked it up on Wednesday! He had requested Bananagrams, all three LOTR movies, Ladyhawke, and The Princess Bride. Okay, they're not study materials, but at least it sounds like his new friends are interesting.
3. For Lauren's birthday dinner I made chicken picatta, one of her favorites and one of the few foods she requested before her trip. The only item left is cinnamon rolls. After another failure with frozen dough, I am baking a fresh batch today. We'll have them for dessert tonight, just before driving to the airport. Did I mention procrastination?

I enjoy reading the successes of other moms. You can, too, if you stop over at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

I don't think I've done any school planning this week, but that doesn't mean I didn't accomplish anything:

1. Preparing for Lauren's departure, we celebrated Thanksgiving in August. There's a large, empty space in my freezer now! Last night we ate turkey soup for dinner.
2. I decluttered a bit with the help of Freecycle.
3. Preparing for David's departure (this morning!), I wrapped a pile of "Remember that we love you" treats for him to open at school.

Are you enjoying your last days of summer? See how other moms are succeeding over at Faith and Family Live.

And now we're off!

Small Successes: Setting the Bar Low

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Some weeks my achievements are indeed diminutive. Take now, for example:

1. I wrote a heartfelt, profusely illustrated blog post about . . . tablecloths.
2. I made it to daily mass. Once.
3. I pulled the 20# turkey from the freezer far enough in advance to completely thaw, in the fridge, by this weekend.

How are you doing? Be encouraged by my baby steps or inspired by other moms here.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

1. Inspired by a conversation with new friends, I made dulce de leche in my crockpot! I'd made it before with milk and sugar and vanilla, but this was the easy, condensed milk version. I thought myself clever until I stumbled on this internet post. In fact, the abundant comments got me to cook my ddl in jelly jars rather than the can. I wasn't worried about the can exploding, but it was nice to see how dark the caramel was, and some commenters warned about BPA in a long-heated can. ANYWAY, the result is sweet, tasty, and apparently delicious in coffee (not an imbiber myself...).
2. Inspired by the quickly approaching departure of my oldest for FOUR WHOLE MONTHS, I'm making dinner from her list of "I'd like to eat before I leave." Tonight it's pork lo mein (from the Cook's Illustrated Skillet Cookbook). Coming soon: cinnamon buns, chicken piccata, and a traditional Thanksgiving dinner (my idea--I somehow have a 20# turkey in the freezer!).
3. Inspired by the rapid approach of September, I've been spending more time planning school. (Hey! It's not ALWAYS about food here!) I have mapped out our school and break weeks, and am now fitting the girls' science book into that grid. Lots more to do, but at least it's a real beginning.

How's your week? Be inspired by other moms at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes: the Paperwork Edition

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

I've taken care of plenty of paperwork over the past several days. It would be more impressive if some of these items hadn't been on my list for months, but here goes:

1. I ordered the few new school books we'll need this year, for science, writing, and Latin. We've homeschooled long enough to have a stockpile of materials, making our yearly investment smaller as time goes by.


2. I registered Marianna for Irish dance (still need to order hard shoes). I sent emails trying to find out why Joe's orchestra registration check hasn't been cashed (more follow up required). I still need to register for CCD (we use our parish's "home taught" option).


3. I dropped off the paperwork needed to order papal blessings for my parents' and in-laws' 50th wedding anniversaries. This is usually done through your parish or diocesan office and (I've been told) takes about 3 months. I'm not spilling secrets by writing here; my in-laws don't have internet access and my parents already know.

How's your summer going? Read more good news at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes: the Vacation Edition

Ah, the slow pace of summer...

Actually, it still feels hectic here some days, but there's no school and few official activities. We spent a few days at the beach and will soon be on our way to a week at Saranac Lake, NY. In addition to sharing a house and hikes and water activities and company with my whole family plus a few (~32 in all!), we'll be celebrating my parents' 50th wedding anniversary. Maybe life isn't so slow after all...

My recent successes are indeed small, but make me believe I'm still getting something done now and then:

1. I followed through on a Fourth of July craft: painting fireworks t-shirts.
2. I inventoried and organized the big freezer. We also ate a dinner that used up dribs and drabs of five different frozen entrees!
3. I reviewed all seven of our library accounts, renewing or returning everything due between now and our return from vacation, changing 8 due dates to just 2.
4. Bonus accomplishment: I organized a trip to the pool, including inviting Becca's best friend, without being asked.

How about you? Are you enjoying a successful summer? Read what other moms are up to at Faith & Family Live.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Well, it's been many weeks since I've participated in Faith and Family Live's "Small Successes", but here goes:

1. Len has been away for several days (kayaking) and I've been staying up too late. Why is this a success? I always stay up when he's gone, but this time I'm getting to bed long before the 2:00 a.m. I sometimes succumb to. And although I've had excessive computer time some days, I've also read a book and avoided the TV. It's all about perspective...
2. I finished correcting the final assignments for our writing co-op and hosted our end-of-year party. I didn't teach as many sessions as some of the other moms, but I did work hard, especially reviewing the homework. One of the biggest benefits of a co-op for me is that I will stick with something when other families depend on me.
3. I cooked special dinners with both Marianna and Joe lately. Should really get some pictures up...

How's your spring turning out so far? It's still Easter--Alleluia! Be encouraged by other moms here.

Small Successes

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Last week I didn't pray enough to "earn" much online time. Truth be told, I had several busy and/or gloomy days that would have kept me from posting anyway. Happily, life is looking up and I have a bit of good news to share:

1. Yesterday the homeschoolers and I made it to Confession and 20 minutes of Adoration, keeping us on track with our family Lenten commitment.
2. We also managed two short visits to our schoolroom "annex", a nearby playground. We ride bikes and combine some work and play.
3. I've taught two classes of our writing co-op and today finished correcting and returning work to the other families. This co-op has been such a blessing; I love the IEW program but on my own have never been able to stick with it for more than a few months.

To be inspired by other moms, visit Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes: Teamwork

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."

Today I realized that my accomplishments are frequently due to teamwork or outright gifts from others. For example, this week:

1. Thanks to my teens, I had a discount babysitter available on Saturday so Len and I could go out to dinner, and a driver to tae kwon do yesterday who gave me an hour and a half of free time. Okay, I used it to clean the kitchen and make dinner, but otherwise we might have eaten sandwiches in the midst of chaos!
2. A friend took Rebecca to the insect zoo and butterfly pavilion at the Smithsonian on Wednesday.
3. And today, 4 drivers cooperated to get 14 children from 6 families to and from 7 destinations in under 3 hours (including the evening rush)! Don't you wonder how we got anyone anywhere before cell phones? I've been a parent long enough to remember not owning one!

Read about the successes of other moms over at Faith and Family Live.

Small Successes: the Lenten Edition

"It’s important for moms to recognize that all the small successes in our days can add up to one big triumph. So on Thursday of each week, we do exactly that."


Marianna and Joe have made several ornaments for the Jesus tree, and I've glued the branches on the banner. All that's left is to sew a pocket for the hanging rod and start using this great resource! Meanwhile, there have been some early Lenten accomplishments:

1. As a family we've committed to Adoration and Confession--one or the other each week. It was so hard to sych the schedules of our parish with our seven lives! Anyway, last night we made it to our first Reconciliation of Lent.
2. I've prayed and read In Conversation With God nearly every day. There's always something that strikes me, and yesterday's topic was . . . Confession!
3. Inspired by a friend, this Lent I'm targeting the 5 senses for my sacrifices: smell & taste = no dessert, touch = turn off the shower immediately after rinsing, sight and sound = look and listen when communicating with my children (take eyes from screen, book, or chore). None of these is easy for weak me, but I've been mostly faithful so far.

What's going right for you this week? Be inspired by other moms at Faith and Family Live.